Recorder of Liverpool Henry Globe QC told the men: “It was unnecessary, unruly, ugly and unlawful group violence in public.”

They had denied the offence but changed their pleas on the first day of trial where Gerrard was acquitted.

Grant admitted punching the victim in the head from behind. But his barrister Trevor Parry-Jones said at Liverpool Crown Court it was because he sensed a threat to Gerrard, who is “as much his hero as his friend”.

Paul McGrattan admitted affray after pushing over a table and chair, throwing a punch and smashing a glass door when he left.

The brawl started after Mr McGee refused to let Gerrard pick a song on the stereo he was controlling.

Doran then elbowed Mr McGee in the face.

An argument followed and Gerrard punched Mr McGee three times at the bar. His mates then punched and kicked Mr McGee, of Southport, on the dance floor.